Is CBD Legal in Finland in 2025?
Finland is an EU member state known for its high quality of life, strong institutions, and progressive policies. However, when it comes to cannabis regulation, the country takes a more restrictive approach. This raises the question: is CBD legal in Finland?
While CBD in Finland is not classified as a narcotic, strict regulations govern its sale and use. The Finnish Medicines Agency (FIMEA) considers CBD oil in Finland a medicine if marketed for internal use, making it difficult to sell as a food supplement. However, CBD cosmetics and certain external-use products remain available.
At the same time, is cannabis legal in Finland? The answer is no—Finland maintains strict drug policies, and possession of cannabis remains illegal. However, public attitudes are shifting, with political groups like the Green League advocating for cannabis reform. Despite this, concerns over what drugs are legal in Finland and the country’s relatively high drug-related death rates keep the government cautious about relaxing cannabis laws.
A Short History of Cannabis and CBD in Finland
Cannabis laws in Finland have followed a restrictive trajectory, with only minor changes over the years. Historically, Finland criminalized cannabis alongside other controlled substances, with strict penalties for possession and distribution. Is weed legal in Finland? The answer remains no—personal use and possession of cannabis can result in fines, while larger quantities lead to harsher penalties.
However, CBD in Finland has seen a different legal path. While Finland recognizes CBD oil as a non-intoxicating compound, regulatory bodies classify it as a medicine if marketed for internal use. This means that while CBD is available in some forms, such as cosmetics, selling it as a food supplement remains restricted.
Medical cannabis has been legal in Finland since 2008, but it is rarely prescribed due to strict medical guidelines. Patients must receive special authorization, and only a few pharmacies are licensed to dispense medical cannabis. Unlike some EU nations, Finland has not yet embraced broad cannabis reform, though discussions continue.
What Drugs Are Legal in Finland?
Finland has some of the strictest drug laws in Europe, with no recreational substances legally permitted. What drugs are legal in Finland? In short, none are for recreational use. Cannabis, hash, amphetamines, and other controlled substances remain illegal, with possession leading to fines or imprisonment depending on the quantity.
Medical cannabis has been legal since 2008 but is rarely prescribed. Patients need a special permit from FIMEA (Finland’s Medical Agency), and only a handful of pharmacies are authorized to dispense it. Similarly, other controlled substances, like opioids, are available strictly for medical use under prescription.
Unlike some EU nations, Finland CBD regulations remain restrictive. While CBD oil in Finland is not classified as a narcotic, its sale as a food supplement is not permitted, and it can only be marketed for external use. The country's cautious approach to drug policy reflects concerns over high rates of substance abuse and drug-related deaths.
So, Is CBD Legal in Finland?
Yes, CBD is legal in Finland, but with strict regulations. The country follows EU guidelines for CBD products, ensuring compliance with European standards. However, Finnish laws require that CBD products must contain 0.2% THC to be legally sold over the counter.
CBD oil is not classified as a food supplement in Finland due to EU Novel Food regulations. Therefore, it cannot be marketed or sold as an edible product without prior authorization. Instead, CBD products are primarily available as cosmetics and can be purchased from pharmacies, specialty stores, and online shops.
For those seeking medical CBD, it is available through a doctor's prescription. Finland's Medical Agency (FIMEA) oversees the approval of cannabis-based medicines, ensuring that only registered medical CBD products are dispensed through licensed pharmacies.
Buying CBD in Finland
CBD products are available in Finland, but strict regulations apply. Only CBD products with 0.2% THC can be sold legally. CBD oil cannot be marketed as a food supplement due to the EU's Novel Food regulation. Instead, it is primarily sold as a cosmetic or wellness product.
Consumers can find CBD in Finland through pharmacies, specialty stores, and online retailers. However, those purchasing online should ensure that the product complies with EU and Finnish regulations.
Selling CBD in Finland
Starting a CBD business in Finland requires compliance with Novel Food regulations if the product is intended for consumption. Sellers must either obtain Novel Food approval from the European Commission or import pre-approved CBD products from other EU nations.
CBD products manufactured within the EU can be imported without additional Finnish approval, provided they have valid Novel Food authorization in another EU country. However, hemp seed oil is exempt from these requirements and can be sold freely.
While Finland follows EU law, enforcement remains strict, and businesses must avoid making medical claims about CBD products. For entrepreneurs, working with trusted EU suppliers is the safest approach to entering the Finland CBD market.
Summary: Is CBD Legal in Finland?
As of 2025, CBD is legal in Finland, but its sale and marketing are highly regulated. Finland follows EU guidelines, allowing CBD products with up to 0.2% THC, though they cannot be marketed as food supplements without Novel Food authorization.
- CBD oil in Finland is legal but can only be sold for external use unless it has Novel Food approval.
- Medical cannabis is legal but highly restricted and available only by prescription through specialized pharmacies.
- Hemp-derived CBD products must comply with EU regulations, and those with Novel Food approval in one EU country can be imported into Finland.
- Hemp seed oil is exempt from Novel Food regulations and can be sold freely.
- Recreational cannabis remains illegal, and Finland maintains strict drug policies compared to other EU nations.
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At Essentia Pura, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality white-label and private-label CBD products, helping businesses launch their own unique CBD brands. With cutting-edge hemp extraction methods and a commitment to compliance and quality, we support companies in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Whether you’re looking for ready-to-market formulations or custom solutions, we’re here to help you succeed in the growing CBD market.
